Decluttering for enhanced workplace performance: The 5S solution

Abstract

Excessive clutter in the work environment can significantly hinder employee
performance. The more items accumulate, the harder it becomes to maintain
cleanliness, leading to a dirty and disorganized workspace. According to UCLA's
Centre on Everyday Lives and Families, clutter can increase stress levels by elevating
cortisol, which the brain interprets as a sign of failure. This stress reduces employees'
cognitive abilities, further impacting their performance. Therefore, organizations must
address this issue through decluttering. The 5S methodology—Seiri (Sort), Seiton (Set
in order), Seiso (Shine), Seiketsu (Standardize), and Shitsuke (Sustain)—is an effective
approach for decluttering and improving the work environment. This journal employs
a literature review methodology, analyzing relevant sources such as previous journals,
books, and articles. The review concludes that 5S is the most practical decluttering
method for organizations. Various studies have demonstrated that 5S significantly
enhances employee performance. Beyond performance improvements, 5S also boosts
overall organizational efficiency, including time, energy, and cost savings.